PO Box 5248                 32 Bella Vista Way            Bella Vista, AR    72714           479-855-6020

Our volunteers are the beating hearts of our shelter.  They love our furry friends, and they love them!

Like so many animal lovers who give of their time, Rene’ Paradise considers herself to be just giving back some of the joy given her by a very special creature in her life.

Riley Marie, a 3 1/2-year-old black Labrador, came into Rene’s life through her sister. When the sister’s children ended up being allergic to the Lab, Rene’ took in the animal. Now, Rene’ says: “I can’t imagine my life without her.”

Aware that not every potentially wonderful animal companion is blessed with a loving home like Riley, Rene’ was moved to spread some of the love she gets every day to other furry friends.

Though the full-time Wal-Mart supplier’s time was limited, Rene’s love for Riley Marie and her growing awareness of puppy-mill busts and abuse inspired her to make time for the Bella Vista Animal Shelter.

For Rene’,it’s mostly about the dogs. She particularly loves getting to know each unique canine personality and hearing the stories of rescue. She would love to continue spreading this wonderful secret she has discovered: Joy is contagious and only grows greater when you give it away.
 

As to the supposed “sacrifices” of adopting or donating, Rene’ says: “Doing either or both can actually bring joy into your life.”

Of giving time and love to the wonderful animals of the Bella Vista shelter, she cheerfully asserts, “I bet you couldn’t do it just once, anyway.”